Carers can't afford to be ill - Royal Borough celebrates Carers Week

Carers can't afford to be ill – that's the theme of this year's national Carers Week (June 9 – 15).

The Royal Borough is geared up to celebrate this 14th national celebration week with a full programme of events to highlight the impact caring can have on carers' health and wellbeing.

There are currently more than 11,000 unpaid carers in the Royal Borough, many of whom are under the age of 18. They are looking after a sick or disabled partner, relative or friend and many are not aware of the services available to support them. Carers Week aims to reach out to those carers who do not realise that help is available, as well as contributing to the national campaign to improve support services for carers.

Michaela Helman of the Royal Borough's Carers Link, said: "We welcome everyone in the local community to the events programme, especially if they have caring responsibilities themselves.  Many carers find it useful to meet people who are in a similar situation, share experiences and find out more about local support services."

John Shaw, chief executive of the Princess Royal Trust Carers Service in Berkshire said: "Unpaid carers play a vital role in our local community and deserve everyone's support. These events are a great opportunity for carers from across the Royal Borough to find out information, get that vital support and meet together."

Allan Brown, head of Royal Borough adult services, said: "Many carers are unaware of the benefits and services available to them.  Research tells us that carers' own health is twice as likely to suffer as a result of the stresses of caring and it is vital that carers know their rights, to ensure that they get the support they need. If you are a carer you should come forward and receive the help that could make a big difference to your life."

Carolyn Finlay, assistant director, Berkshire East Primary Care Trust, said: "It is essential that carers receive all the help and support they need to stay in good health. The Primary Care Trust would encourage carers of all ages to visit the many events that are happening locally to see the range of information and services that are available to support carers in their vital role."

Carers Week has been funded by the Royal Borough and Berkshire East PCT, with the programme of events organised by the local Carers Partnership Board together with carers themselves and the Carers Week steering group made up of representatives from the Royal Borough, PCT, Maidenhead MENCAP, Maidenhead Multiple Sclerosis Society, Age Concern Windsor, Community Mental Health team, Milap Asian Women's Group and East Berkshire MIND mental Health promotion team.

For information about Carers Week events and activities contact the Princess Royal Trust Carers Service on 01628 777217 or visit www.rbwm.gov.uk.  Transport and respite care can be arranged on request.

Date Event Details
Monday 9th Carers Drop InUnited Reformed Church, Maidenhead10.00am – 12.30pm Organised by Maidenhead & District Alzheimer's Group.Tea, coffee, refreshments.
Tuesday 10th Helping to make life easier for a carer using the internet10.15am – 11.00amInformation Stall9.30am -12.30pmYoga Class11.15am - 12.00 noonAge Concern Windsor, Spencer Denney Centre, Windsor SL4 4EB Organised by Age Concern Windsor. A practical hands-on computer demonstration showing how to send and receive emails, on-line shopping, buying and selling using eBay and how to find local and national carer support organisations.Yoga class to help you de-stress and relax.
Wednesday 11th Carers Chill Out DayDesborough Suite, Town Hall, Maidenhead1.00pm – 7.00pm Therapies, facials, blood pressure checks, blood glucose checks (4.00-6.00pm only), meditation, healthy eating, podiatry information, coronary heart disease, active lifestyles advice, smoking cessation, SMILE exercises, face painting, information and advice on voluntary and statutory sector agencies.Refreshments – including cake and fruit
Friday 13th Information StallSainsbury's Maidenhead11.00am – 7.00pm Advice & information provided by staff.
Saturday 14th Information StallAscot Durning Library, High Street, Ascot        SL5 7JF10.00am – 1.00pm Advice & information provided by staff

Young Carers
In addition there will be activities including trips to Legoland and Longridge Activity Centre for young carers sponsored by the Rotary Club of Windsor St George and the Rotary Club of Cookham Bridge.  T

Young Carers Competition
A £20 gift voucher is up for grabs as the prize for the winning entry in a competition to draw or photograph 'What it's like to be a young carer'.  Entries to be sent to Highview, 6 North Road, Maidenhead SL6 1PL by Friday 6 June.  The competition will be judged by a panel of young carers.
Information will be on display all week at The Magnet and Windsor leisure centres, St Mark's, King Edward V11 and Upton hospitals.